Implemented since 2017,  Growth Accelerator (AWIEF) is a flagship enterprise development programme designed to support early-stage and high-growth-oriented women-owned and women-led small and medium-sized enterprises (WSMEs) with growth strategy training, corporate advisory, mentoring, networks, and access to finance.

The 2024 AWIEF-Nedbank South Africa programme seeks to enhance the readiness of women to access funding opportunities and scale-up their businesses in the agriculture and green economy sectors through the provision of tailored business development services, tools, mentoring and skills development.

For the 2024 cohort, applications are invited from WSMEs operating in agribusiness, agro-processing, green energy, and climate-smart solutions. Technology-based and tech-enabled businesses are highly encouraged to apply.

Check: 2025-2026 (Fully Funded) Fulbright-Kalam Climate Fellowships for Doctoral Research

Eligibility and Criteria for Selection of AWIEF Growth Accelerator for South Africa in Partnership

Businesses must meet the following criteria to be eligible for selection.

• South African Exempt Micro Enterprises (EMEs) or Qualifying Small Enterprises (QSEs); at least 51% female black-owned
• Operating in agriculture (agribusiness, agro-processing), green economy and climate-smart solutions
• Businesses must be in a post-revenue phase
• Scalable and highly innovative ventures
• Businesses must be in operation for a minimum of three years
• Owned or led by ambitious and committed women entrepreneurs
• Businesses must be seeking investment or funding to scale.

It might catch your attention to investigate: Explore Opportunities: CGIAR/WFP Stability-and-Peace Accelerator Programme 2024 ($30,000 equity-free Grant)

Applications Open Now!

AWIEF Growth Accelerator applications are officially open for qualifying candidates for the 2024 cohort for South Africa. The deadline for submission is 3 March 2024 at 11:59pm Central Africa Time (CAT).